Treatment Overview
The FUT + Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) Combo, often called the Strip + SMP technique, is a comprehensive solution that combines surgical hair transplantation with cosmetic scalp shading for a thicker, fuller appearance.
In this treatment, a Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT) procedure is performed to restore natural hair growth, while Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) is used to fill gaps, enhance density, and conceal the donor scar. The synergy of both techniques provides immediate aesthetic improvement and long-term natural hair growth, making it one of the most sought-after treatments among international patients visiting Korea.
Korean clinics have perfected this combination through advanced pigment technology, microsurgical artistry, and digital scalp design systems, delivering results that appear entirely natural even in close-up views.
Purpose & Benefits
The purpose of combining FUT and SMP is to achieve maximum coverage, seamless blending, and cosmetic perfection for patients with moderate to advanced hair loss.
Key Benefits
- Dual benefit: natural growth from FUT + visual fullness from SMP
- Conceals donor scars from strip harvesting
- Creates the illusion of thicker, denser hair
- Enhances overall scalp appearance and symmetry
- Ideal for both men and women
- Immediate aesthetic improvement with long-term hair growth
Ideal Candidates
The FUT + SMP combo is ideal for:
- Men with advanced hair thinning or wide donor scars
- Women with diffuse thinning or visible scalp
- Patients who had previous FUT and want to refine appearance
- Those seeking maximum density and scalp coverage
- Individuals preferring a low-maintenance, high-impact result
Possible Risks & Complications
Both FUT and SMP are safe and well-tolerated. However, minor short-term side effects may include:
- Mild scalp redness or swelling for 1–3 days
- Temporary tightness at the donor site
- Slight scabbing after SMP sessions
- Rare pigment fading or mismatch (corrected during touch-up)
Korean clinics ensure safety through biocompatible, hypoallergenic pigments, medical-grade sterilization, and expert SMP technicians working alongside hair transplant surgeons.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean medical centers integrate microsurgical FUT methods with cosmetic pigmentation artistry to produce seamless, undetectable results.
Advanced Techniques Used in Korea
- Microscopic FUT Graft Dissection: Ensures intact follicles for natural regrowth.
- Trichophytic Donor Closure: Conceals strip scar under natural hair growth.
- 3D SMP Mapping: Creates realistic shading and texture using digital scalp design.
- PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy: Enhances healing post-FUT and improves SMP retention.
- Custom Pigment Blending: Matches scalp tone and existing hair color precisely.
This combination delivers both functional and visual density, maximizing the impact of hair restoration while keeping the scalp aesthetics natural and uniform.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Design: Hairline and scalp density analysis using digital mapping.
- FUT Surgery: A narrow donor strip is removed and follicles transplanted under local anesthesia.
- Microscopic Dissection: Grafts prepared under magnification for high survival.
- Trichophytic Closure: Donor incision closed to allow hair to regrow through the scar.
- SMP Session: Micropigmentation applied 2–3 weeks after FUT to blend scalp tones and enhance density.
- Aftercare: PRP or scalp therapy may follow for optimal healing and pigment stability.
International patients benefit from personalized scalp design consultations, English-speaking coordinators, and luxury recovery services during their stay in Korea.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery from the FUT + SMP combo is comfortable and manageable:
- Mild donor tightness for 2–4 days
- Redness after SMP fades within 3–5 days
- Avoid water and sweat exposure for 3 days post-SMP
- Hair washing after 3 days post-FUT
- SMP touch-up recommended after 4–6 weeks for color stability
- Full hair growth and SMP blending visible in 9–12 months
Korean clinics provide scalp care kits and pigment maintenance treatments to ensure long-term satisfaction.
Results & Longevity
The combination of FUT + SMP produces dense, natural, and cosmetically enhanced results.
- 95–98% graft survival rate for FUT
- Immediate cosmetic improvement from SMP
- Long-lasting results (FUT is permanent, SMP lasts 3–5 years)
- Natural blend with real and simulated density
- Minimal donor visibility and superior aesthetic outcome
This dual approach ensures that even patients with advanced hair loss achieve visually complete coverage and confidence.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is internationally renowned for integrating medical precision with aesthetic artistry, making it a leader in hybrid hair restoration solutions like FUT + SMP.
Why Choose Korea for FUT + SMP Combo
- Clinics specializing in surgical + cosmetic hair restoration
- Expert SMP technicians certified in medical-grade pigmentation
- Advanced equipment and pigment technology
- Affordable, all-inclusive packages for international patients
- Consistent, high-quality aesthetic outcomes
Cost Range
The FUT + Scalp Micropigmentation Combo (Strip + SMP) in Korea typically costs:
- Small session (1,000–2,000 grafts + partial SMP): USD 3,000–4,200
- Medium session (2,500–3,500 grafts + full SMP): USD 4,200–5,800
- Large session (4,000+ grafts + full coverage SMP): USD 5,800–7,000
Korean clinics provide custom combination packages, often including FUT surgery, SMP sessions, PRP therapy, and follow-up visits — offering exceptional value for global patients.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- FORHAIR Clinic Korea – Seoul
- ID Hospital Hair Center – Seoul
- DA Plastic Surgery Clinic – Seoul
- Moohan Clinic – Seoul
- Seoul Hair Clinic – Gangnam
These clinics are recognized for pioneering surgical + aesthetic hybrid hair restoration, using advanced FUT precision with SMP artistry for flawless visual results.
